More From Steven Cohen

Genesis 1 tells us, "In the beginning," the earth was without form, void, and dark. On the first day of creation God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. On the sixth day of creation God said, "Let us make man in our image," so man was created in God's image.

Jesus told the people, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life" (John 8:12). He also told his followers, "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14). Jesus explained that people do not hide a lamp under a bowl, they put it on a lamp-stand so it gives light to everyone in the room. He said, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). Jesus encouraged his followers to share the blessing of knowing and serving him so others could be blessed as well.

Before God created light, the world was full of physical darkness. The world we live in today, even during the brightest daylight, is full of spiritual darkness. When Jesus walked among the people, he was the light of the world. Today, as followers of Christ, "You are the light of the world." Don't keep the light to yourself, but radiate Christ's light; share his joy, peace, goodness and his eternal salvation with the world.

The Holy Service of Motherhood

"When I became a parent, I struggled to find God within the chaotic world where I now lived. I was used to contemplative prayer, to silence and service and listening for God’s still, small voice in quiet, hidden spaces. Suddenly none of my life felt quiet or hidden – it was all loud, messy, and exposed." Discover more.

—Lauren Burdette

Author of This Life That Is Ours: Motherhood As Spiritual Practice (Upper Room Books, 2019).